Leroy (Tex) French Leroy French, 74, of West Columbia, Texas passed away January 3, 2010 surrounded by his family after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was born on March 20, 1935 in West Columbia to John and Winnie French. He was a member of First Baptist Church of West Columbia. Tex loved the music of Tex Ritter and after a lengthy meeting with him, Leroy's family nicknamed him "Tex." Tex worked for Community Public Service electric company for 21 years then he continued his career at Brazoria Telephone Company, where he retired after 24 years. He enjoyed all the people he worked with and continued those friendships long after he retired. Tex's true love was caring for the many animals he raised at his farm on French Lane. It was not uncommon to see cows, ducks, goats, pigeons, chickens, rabbits and any other critters that wondered upon French Hill. Tex was preceded in death by his parents, Brother Jake French, Brother Pete French, sister Ruby French Hood, grandson Brian Geserick and wife Erma French. He is survived by his companion and angel Shirley Hart, son Mike French and wife Janet of West Columbia, daughter Cheri French Geserick and husband Larry of West Columbia, daughter Cindy French Laine and husband Dale of Austin, Texas, step-daughters Sharon Williams and husband Donald of West Columbia and Debbie Shaw. Grandchildren Krystal French, Kandice French, Michael French II, Charlie Cahoon, Cathy Cahoon, Aaron Geserick, Stephanie Geserick Bowers, Amanda Geserick, Kendall French-Kazen, Travis Laine and Tanner Laine. The family would like to thank Martha Martinez who tirelessly and lovingly cared for Mr. French. We would also like to thank Hospice nurses Sue, Shelly and Andrea and all the other caregivers from Hospice who assisted the entire family through his final journey. Funeral services will be Wednesday at 2:00 pm at Baker Funeral Home and visitation will be Tuesday 5-7. Pallbearers will be Scott Booth, Aaron Geserick, Allen Greene, Gary Greene, Troy Friemel, Wayne French, Billy Ray Walden and Darrel French. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made in Tex's name to Hospice Care Team, 107 West Way, Suite 29, Lake Jackson, TX 77566. Final arrangements under the direction of Baker Funeral Home, 634 S. Columbia Drive, West Columbia, Texas 77486 (97